US Passport Renewal - Everything You Need to Know

If your US passport has expired or is about to expire, you should apply for a passport renewal. A Passport with a minimum of six-month validity is required for travel to many countries. You can renew your passport by mail or in person, but you may only renew by mail if all of the following apply to you.

Your US passport:

Is undamaged and can be submitted with your application;

Was issued when you were age 16 or older;

Was issued in the last 15 years; and

Was issued in your current name, or you are able to provide a legal document of name change with an original or certified copy of your marriage certificate.

If any of the above statements do not apply to you, you must apply for a passport renewal in person.

Before Applying for US Passport Renewal

Before you begin the process of renewing your passport, be aware that:

All minors age 15 below and must apply in person using Form DS-11, whether or not they have ever held a US passport in the past. They have to be accompanied by their parents.

Anyone who currently holds or has ever held a US passport book and is eligible to use Form DS-82 may apply for a passport card by mail.

Applicants will receive their old passport back in mail after renewal.

Applicants who are behind in child support payments may not be able to get a passport.

How to Apply for US Passport Renewal by Mail

2. Submit most recent US passport book and/or card. You must submit this with Form DS-82. Keep in mind that your most recent passport book/card must:

Have been issued when you were age 16 or older; and

Was issued within the past 15 years.

3. If your name has changed, submit a certified copy of your marriage certificate or court order. This is only required for applicants whose name is different from the one that appears on their most recent US passport.

4. Pay passport fees. The passport fees are as follows.

What are you renewing?

Fee (USD)

Adult Passport Book & Card

$140

Adult Passport Book

$110

Adult Passport Card (if you currently hold a valid Passport Book or Card)